By Burnett Munthali
The People’s Transformation Party (PETRA) has strongly condemned the violent incidents that unfolded in Lilongwe on November 13, 2024, describing them as a grave threat to Malawi’s peace, democracy, and electoral integrity.
The violence, which saw armed individuals wielding panga knives, disrupted the serenity of Old Town areas near National Bank and the Lilongwe Community Ground. According to PETRA, the unrest stemmed from a counter-demonstration targeting a planned protest by opposition parties demanding the resignation of the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) chairperson.
In a statement signed by PETRA Communications Director Damister Chimombo, the party described such behavior as a “recipe for disaster,” particularly as Malawi gears up for the critical 2025 general elections.
Chimombo urged all Malawians, regardless of their political affiliations, to condemn these acts of violence, calling them a direct affront to the nation’s democratic principles.
“We must all work together to denounce and prevent lawlessness. Failure to act now could escalate these incidents into larger-scale destruction, injuries, and potential loss of lives,” warned Chimombo.
PETRA also called on law enforcement agencies to take decisive action to curb such behavior. Chimombo emphasized the need for impartiality, urging police officers to investigate the violence thoroughly and prosecute the perpetrators without fear or favor.
“We expect that law enforcement agents will not allow themselves to serve narrow and partisan interests,” he added, reflecting public concerns about potential bias in the handling of politically charged cases.
The party highlighted the critical importance of maintaining peace and adhering to democratic principles as Malawi approaches its next electoral cycle. PETRA called on citizens to safeguard the nation’s hard-won freedoms, emphasizing mutual respect and tolerance as essential values for a functioning democracy.
This incident has reignited concerns about rising political tensions in Malawi, particularly with the contentious 2025 elections on the horizon. The violence not only threatens to polarize the political landscape further but also undermines the public’s confidence in the nation’s ability to conduct free and fair elections.
PETRA’s statement is a timely reminder of the fragile nature of democracy and the collective responsibility to uphold the rule of law. As political temperatures rise, it is imperative for all stakeholders—political leaders, citizens, and law enforcement agencies—to work together in ensuring that Malawi remains a beacon of peace and democracy in the region.
